What happened to Officer Will Hunter in Gateshead?

Officer Will Hunter was attacked with a machete during a routine car stop in Gateshead in August 2024.

Who attacked Officer Hunter and what was his sentence?

Matthew Bello attacked Officer Hunter and was jailed for four years after admitting wounding with intent.

Did Officer Will Hunter receive any awards for the incident?

Yes, Officer Hunter was honored with the Bravery and Lifesaving Award for his actions during the attack.

Home / Crime and Justice / Officer Fights for Life in Machete Attack

Officer Fights for Life in Machete Attack

22 Jan

•

Summary

Officer Will Hunter narrowly survived a machete attack during a traffic stop.
Matthew Bello attacked the officer with a machete, then rammed a police vehicle.
The officer received a Bravery and Lifesaving Award for his actions.

Officer Fights for Life in Machete Attack

In August 2024, Officer Will Hunter of Northumbria Police was engaged in a routine vehicle stop at a petrol station in Gateshead. The interaction turned perilous when Matthew Bello launched a violent assault on the officer with a machete.

Officer Hunter described the harrowing experience, stating he was "fighting" for his life and could have easily died. His extensive training allowed him to defend himself during the brutal attack, preventing more severe injuries.

Following the assault on Leam Lane, Bello fled in his car, further endangering officers by ramming a police vehicle. He was apprehended later in Saltwell after being tracked down.